Ruggiero Looking For Another Big Win During Historic Season

The 2023 season will be a season to remember for rookie Gio Ruggiero. The 2023 ASA Southern Super Series champion has quickly continued his success from the southern circuit to claim more honors. Just a few weeks after winning the Southern Super Series title and the VDL Fuel System Rookie of the Year honors, Ruggiero added another title and a Winchester 400 rifle to his trophy case.

“I’m just so proud of everybody on my Wilson Motorsports team and all the crew guys for working so hard every weekend,” said Ruggiero. “Without them and everybody who supports me. I don't think it would have been possible.”

The victory at Winchester also allowed him to clinch the ASA CRA Super Series title to claim his second title in Super Late Model action. He is the first driver to win both titles and he did it in the same season.

While the 2023 calendar is winding down, there are only a few major accomplishments to remain.

“It’s now time for big race season,” added Ruggiero. “Longer races and more prestige. We are just looking to end strong in 2023.”

When asked what Ruggiero’s ASA Southern Super Series highlight of 2023 was, he was quick to point out the win at Hickory Motor Speedway over NASCAR driver William Byron. The photo finish was one of the closest races in series history and it was a combo event with the STARS National Tour.

“Yeah, I think it was awesome,” added Ruggiero. “The way we won the race on the last lap like that was pretty cool. I don't think a lot of people saw that coming but you know it was awesome we won the week after as well at Salem so it was kind of cool to go back-to-back early in the season.”

Attention now turns to the All American 400 when Ruggiero ran one of his first Super Late Model events a year ago. He finished second to Stephen Nasse who claimed the Nashville guitar in 2022.

"I am so excited to be heading back to Nashville,” added Ruggiero. “That is one of my favorite tracks and I'm sure we will have a good car there for the 400. The crew has given me great cars all season and we have to thank First Auto Group, RaceChoice.com and TRD (Toyota Racing Development) for their support.

Friday, November 3rd will feature a full day of practice for the ASA STARS National Tour. Another round of practice will take place on Saturday, November 4th with qualifying at 5pm CT. Sunday, November 5th is race day for the All American 400 as the Super Late Models will go green at 1pm CT. For more information visit SouthernSuperSeries.com or StarsNationalTour.com

-ASA Southern Super Series Release
-Photo credit: Will Bellamy/Racing America